Several U.S. lawmakers criticized the “atrocious” human rights situation in Iran, including the high number of executions, the discrimination against Baha’is and the crackdown on freedom of expression.
They spoke during a joint subcommittee hearing titled “The Shame of Iranian Human Rights” where they also expressed concern over the fate of several U.S. citizens detained or missing in Iran, including Washington Post reporter Jason Rezaian.
Republican Congresswoman Illena Ros-Lehtinen said despite promises of moderation by Iranian President Hassan Rohani, the rights situation has worsened.
She said the jailing of journalists, persecution of women and minorities and the number of executions has increased in Iran.
Democratic congressman Ted Deutch said even if global powers and Iran manage to reach an “acceptable” nuclear agreement, the Islamic republic still remains a “global leader in terror financing” and a “human rights abuser."
